The NFL Week 12 action kicks off with an intriguing Thursday Night Football matchup as the Buffalo Bills travel to Houston to face the Texans at 8:15 p.m. ET. This game carries significant implications not just for the teams involved but also for fans of NFL Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS), where player selections and strategic stacking can make or break fantasy lineups. However, the Texans will be without their starting quarterback, C.J. Stroud, who has been ruled out due to a concussion. This absence reshapes both team dynamics and daily fantasy considerations heading into the game.
With Stroud sidelined, the spotlight naturally shifts towards Buffalo’s offense, especially quarterback Josh Allen and running back James Cook. Both have emerged as pivotal components in the Bills’ potent attack and are expected to be top choices for NFL DFS players aiming to build winning lineups. Allen, the reigning NFL MVP, has been a dominant fantasy force this season. In his most recent outing, he delivered an exceptional all-around performance, racking up 317 passing yards and three passing touchdowns, along with 40 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. His ability to contribute significantly both through the air and on the ground makes him a unique and valuable asset in DFS contests. Notably, Allen is the only player in NFL history to record at least three rushing and three passing touchdowns in a regular-season game, underscoring his rare dual-threat capabilities.
James Cook complements Allen’s dynamic play, offering a reliable ground game presence that can keep the chains moving. While veteran Nick Chubb may no longer be the explosive force he once was, he remains a consistent contributor, and his presence alongside Cook offers balance to the Bills’ running game. Cook, a younger player, is expected to see double-digit touches each week, which boosts his fantasy floor and makes him a budget-friendly option that allows DFS players to allocate salary cap space to higher-priced stars like Allen.
Aside from the headline Bills players, there are under-the-radar fantasy options worth considering. Wide receivers Khalil Shakir and Ty Johnson could provide value, especially in tournaments or cash games where differentiating your lineup can yield high rewards. These players tend to fly under the radar but have the potential to capitalize on opportunities that arise during the game.
Turning to the Texans, despite the loss of their starting quarterback, there are still valuable fantasy targets. Wide receiver Nico Collins stands out as a reliable option. Collins has demonstrated the ability to thrive regardless of who is throwing him the ball, making him a dependable pick in DFS lineups. The Texans’ running back duo also warrants attention. Though less heralded than their counterparts on the Bills, these players can contribute meaningful fantasy points, particularly in a game where Houston may lean more heavily on the ground game due to Stroud’s absence.
Injuries have also impacted the Bills’ roster. Tight end Dalton Kincaid (hamstring), wide receiver Mecole Hardman (calf), and wide receiver Curtis Samuel (neck) are all ruled out for Thursday’s game. Their absences could lead to increased opportunities for other skill position players on Buffalo’s offense, further influencing DFS strategy.
For those preparing their NFL DFS lineups, expert advice can be invaluable. Mike McClure, a seasoned DFS professional with over $2 million in career winnings, offers his insights and picks for this matchup. McClure employs a sophisticated predictive model that simulates every snap of NFL action, considering matchups, player trends, and injuries. His expertise has led to impressive cashes in major DFS contests, including top finishes in the DraftKings Millionaire Maker and the FanDuel Million. His analysis provides a competitive edge for DFS players looking to optimize their rosters.
McClure’s strategy emphasizes building around Josh Allen, whose rushing ability is particularly relevant given Houston’s defensive tendencies. While the Texans boast an elite defense overall, they have shown vulnerabilities against mobile quarterbacks. Each of the last three opposing quarterbacks they faced managed at least 33 rushing yards, despite being less mobile than Allen. This trend suggests Allen’s rushing upside remains a critical factor and a potential source of significant fantasy points.
Another DFS pick McClure highlights is Texans tight end Dalton Schultz. Since Davis Mills took over as Houston’s quarterback, Schultz has become a reliable target, recording at least six catches and 51 yards in each of the past three games, along with a touchdown. Over his last six games, Schultz is averaging 60.5 receiving yards and